While basics might not be the most exciting pieces to shop for, they are one of the most important. As the foundation of every chic outfit, they have the ability to make an ensemble look effortlessly elegant. With warmer weather all around us, I've been looking to update my wardrobe with a handful of stylish summer staples to elevate my looks. I'm especially looking for silhouettes and styles that look luxurious but don't carry a hefty price tag. I started (and ended!) my search at Zara this week. Its latest summer arrivals include a whole host of seriously chic basics that look expensive but aren't.
From knit tanks to slip dresses, keep scrolling for an assortment of summer basics from Zara that will unquestionably add a luxe-looking touch to your summer outfits.
Give your black tank an upgrade with these delicate spaghetti straps.
A sleek city bag.
A classic black skirt.
Is there anything as effortlessly elegant as ivory linen pants?
Not your average white tank.
A chic woven bag.
White jeans have the power to make your outfit look triple the price.
Chic leather slides you'll wear on repeat.
Swap your heavier blazers for this luxe-looking lightweight one instead.
A silky satin dress you can easily dress up or down.
Simple yet sophisticated.
Love the front? Just look at the back.
Time to upgrade your denim skirt.
Toteme vibes.
I'm all about clean strapless silhouettes right now.
This could pass for designer.
Coastal-grandma chic.
From boardroom to bar in style.
Add elegance to your look with twisted hoops.
Lean into '90s minimalism this season.
Cushy and cool.
Love this higher neckline.
How chic are these shorts?
LBD season is here.
Still can't believe this expensive-looking sweater is under $50.
This white knit tank will make your outfit.
French-girl vibes.
Such a chic silhouette.
Just add a simple tank top and sandals for one gorgeous summer outfit.
An oversize striped button-down is always a good idea.
A summer essential.
Easy and effortless for everyday summer dressing.
The bamboo handle adds a stunning touch.
From day to night in style.
This post was published at an earlier date and has been updated. Next: I'm on the Hunt for the Perfect White Summer Dress—Here Are 32 I Love
-
These 33 New Fall Zara Items Are Giving Off "I'm Chic Walking in a Metropolitan City" EnergyCool, elevated, and forward pieces.
-
Abercrombie Sucked Me Back Into Their Orbit With These 25 Incredibly Chic Fall 2025 FindsSo, so good.
-
I'm a Fashion Editor on a Budget—27 Incredibly Chic Fall Finds That Will Get You More Bang for Your BuckStellar under-$150 finds right this way.
-
These 32 Elevated Nordstrom and Zara Finds Make Getting Ready So Much Easier (and Chicer)Here's to effortless outfits.
-
Don't Blame Me If They Sell Out While You Read This—35 Chic Zara Finds That Need Your Immediate AttentionThese won't be around for long.
-
36 Zara, Madewell, and H&M Essentials I'm Buying to Look Expensive This FallElevated and easy.
-
I've Spent 3 Hours Looking Through Zara, H&M, and Revolve—These Items Are the BestTop-tier picks ahead.
-
I Just Created 5 Expensive-Looking Pre-Fall Outfits From Nordstrom, H&M, and Saks—You're WelcomeEverything you need to kick off September is right here.
